Canucks team up with Chicago

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SPORTS NETWORK

Jun 27, 2011

, Last Updated: 2:14 PM ET

VANCOUVER -- The Vancouver Canucks have announced a new two-year affiliation agreement with the Chicago Wolves of the American Hockey League.

After the Atlanta Thrashers moved to Winnipeg, the Canucks and recently-named Jets essentially swapped AHL affiliates. The Jets created a three-year agreement with the Manitoba Moose, the Canucks' previous affiliate, and are moving the Moose to Newfoundland. Chicago had been the AHL affiliate of the Thrashers.

"We look forward to this new venture with the Chicago Wolves," said Canucks president and general manager Mike Gillis. "The Canucks have placed great importance and resources in developing prospects and have seen positive results to date, including the likes of Alex Burrows, Ryan Kesler and Chris Tanev. The two organizations will work closely to ensure our goals are one in the same and continue to work on developing a strong relationship with our prospects."

In Chicago's 17 seasons of play, the team won two Turner Cups while a part of the International Hockey League and has won two Calder Cups since joining the AHL in 2001.

"We are very excited as an organization to be affiliated with the Vancouver Canucks," Wolves general manager Wendell Young said. "Their organization has a track record of wanting their players to both develop and win while with their AHL affiliate. Our two clubs are united by a tradition of excellence and a passion for winning, and we hope that this partnership will lead to the continued success of both organizations."